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Alabama Public Television Young Heroes of 2010

Steven Tyree

Berry, AlabamaBerry High School

Steven Tyree is a senior at Berry High School. He holds a 4.0 grade point average and plays on the varsity football and baseball teams. He is a member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), the Math Club, the Science Club and Upward Bound, and President of Student Government. His service to his community includes cutting grass at a local cemetery, working on clean-up committees and working at Head Start, where he reads to preschool children. In August of 2009, Steven was chosen as one of only 40 student leaders to attend the 10th Annual Lott Summer Leadership Institute at the University of Mississippi. More than 500 students were nominated for this honor.

Steven faced daunting obstacles from a young age. His parents chose a lifestyle that included the use of illegal drugs. Steven’s father has been in and out of jail and prison and is currently serving time. Despite their past choices, Steven professes his love for his parents, visiting his father in jail as often as possible. Thankfully, Steven’s mother’s life has turned around, and his father is working toward this goal also.

Steven was also hit with a health challenge in his early years. As the result of an accident, he has undergone two brain surgeries. Few of his classmates realized the extent of Steven’s injuries, however, because he met the challenges with a positive attitude and determination. “He has the most prized attitude,” wrote his nominator, guidance Counselor Danyell Hudson, “and carries a smile wherever he goes.”

Today, Steven and his brothers are in the guardianship and home of their aunt and uncle. It is an excellent and supportive environment for the three boys. The children have been blessed with opportunities, while living with their aunt and uncle, that they never thought would be possible.

Steven’s football coach Danny Raines wrote of him, “As great a student and athlete as Steven he is, he is an even better person. During the six years I have known Steven, he has always been willing to lend a helping hand to those who need him. Steven Tyree is a blessing to all who have the privilege of knowing him.”

Vic Herren, the principal of Berry High School, describes Steven as an outstanding leader. Mr. Herren wrote, “Steven’s goal is to come back to his hometown and practice medicine. It is my privilege to recommend Steven Tyree as a Young Hero of Alabama. He would make an outstanding choice. He provides our community with a shining example of how dedication and perseverance indeed pay off.”